A-Level Programme - Computing (AAQ)

Our new alternative academic qualification in computing is your launchpad into university or tech roles; blending programming, cyber-security, UX design and real-world software into one A-Level equivalent as part of our A-Level programme.

On our A-Level programme, you will study three or four subjects. Please apply for three or four subjects and use our course selector here to check what options you can do!

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Select your A-level subjects and apply

Course Video - A-Levels

If you want help with choosing your A-level subjects, visit the page below and use our A-level course selector.

A-level Course Selector

Course Description
This qualification has been developed by Pearson in consultation with universities and sector experts to ensure that you'll gain the knowledge and skills required to progress into higher education. Throughout the course, you'll begin to learn and understand programming design and methodologies, principles of software development, security threats and technical skills in a relevant context.

What will I study in this subject?

Over the two years, you will study four mandatory units:
- Programming fundamentals; computing concepts and their application through programming and design methodologies
- Computing network security and encryption; types and origins of security threats, regulations, methods and tools to detect and prevent threats and encryption
- Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) - user experience and user interface design principles, HCI design and meeting diverse needs
- Practical programming - principles of computer science related to software development and their application in developing and managing software solutions
Entry Requirements
You will need:
- 5 GCSEs at grade 4 or above, including a grade 5 in English and maths
Course Length

How long is this course?

2 years

When does this course start?

02/09/2026

How many hours / days per week is this course?

Full-time courses at CWA are generally 3 - 4 days per week (though you may be in for an extra day if you are resitting English and / or Maths). The college day is typically longer than a day at school and students will need to plan their individual study in their free time (including individual study hours which are recorded at college in the Learning Resource Centre or other study areas). Work experience will be a key component of your course and most students will complete a minimum of 60 hours per academic year (on top of their college hours), depending on the course they are studying. CWA has a dedicated team of work placement co-ordinators to support you with this.
Course Fees

* Some of our courses may have additional costs to cover trips, unform and equipment. These costs will be confirmed to you at enrolment.

Fee information

Though this course is free for those aged 16-18, there may be additional costs related to the programme, such as additional equipment and uniform, educational trips and work placement costs. Full details will be sent to applicants before enrolment.

Find all the information you need about course fees and financial help below.

Information on Fees and Financial Help

Please note the information on this page was correct at the time of publication but is subject to change due to factors beyond our control.
Additional Information

What qualification will I achieve?

Pearson BTEC Level 3 Alternative Academic Qualification National Extended Certificate in Computing

How is my course assessed?

This subject is assessed by two external examinations and assignments.